By Bill DiPaolo
Palm Beach Post
JUPITER, Fla. — Six-year-old Allison Besaw, whose father was one of the two paramedics killed on June 1 on Indiantown Road, is reaching out to other children who have lost a loved one.
Hand2Paw Happiness, a non-profit organization launched by the blond-haired first-grader and her mother Dawn, brings together children about Allison’s age who have lost a family member with rescue animals. Groups of about 15 children meet with the rescue animals for about two hours.
“After the tragedy, Allison didn’t know how to be happy. My neighbor brought over a kitten one day. I saw a real smile. Animals have that power with children,” said Dawn.
Paul Besaw, 36, and fellow medical technician Lahiri Garcia, 51, were killed when their ambulance collided with another vehicle on Indiantown Road west of Military Trail at Philadephia Drive in Jupiter.
Hand2Paw held its first event at Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in West Palm Beach on February 24. Another is planned March 31, also at Peggy Adams.
“I felt happiness when I was with the kids and the animals,” said Allison.
Reservations are required. Participation is free.
For information, call 954-540-0268 or go to hand2pawshappiness.
Genaro Delacruz Ajqui, 39, is charged with with DUI manslaughter and other charges. Ajqui is being held without bond at the Palm Beach County Jail.
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